Spring in Mahé brings warm temperatures, steady humidity, and frequent but manageable rain showers. You’ll usually see daytime highs around 29°C (84°F), and nights don’t drop much, sticking close to 27°C (81°F). The season stays warm, no matter the time of day.
Rainfall is common, but it usually comes in short bursts. That leaves plenty of time for outdoor activities.
The sea stays inviting, with water temperatures in the low 80s°F, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Sunshine hours don’t really drop, though you’ll get some clouds and showers breaking up the blue skies, which helps keep the island lush and tropical.
If you’re thinking about enjoying the beaches or heading inland to explore, spring gives you warm seas and vibrant landscapes. The mix of heat, rain, and humidity shapes your experience, so knowing what to expect helps you make the most of your time in Mahé.
Overview of Spring Climate in Mahe
In spring, Mahé stays warm, humidity stays high, and rainfall continues with some seasonal shifts. Consistent tropical conditions shape the island’s climate, influenced by its rainforest environment and shifting monsoon winds.
Tropical Rainforest Weather Patterns
Spring brings a mix of heat, humidity, and steady rainfall to Mahé. Average daytime highs sit between 28.8°C and 29.3°C (83.8°F–84.7°F), and nights only dip to 27.8°C to 28.1°C (82°F–82.6°F).
The difference between day and night is tiny, so you’ll feel warmth all day and night.
Rainfall stays frequent in March, April, and May, with totals from 110 mm to 170 mm. Showers tend to be short and heavy, not long storms.
Even with rain, skies clear up enough for several hours of sunshine, so you can still plan to be outside.
Humidity usually hangs around 78–80%, which can feel heavy if you’re not used to it. Sea temperatures stay warm, averaging 28–29°C (82–84°F), so swimming, snorkeling, and diving are always comfortable.
Köppen Climate Classification
Mahé sits in the Af category in the Köppen climate classification, which means it’s a true tropical rainforest climate. There’s really no dry season—rain falls every month.
Instead of sharp seasonal changes, you’ll notice smaller shifts in rain totals and wind direction.
In spring, the Af classification explains why you still get high humidity and frequent showers, even though rainfall drops a bit compared to the wettest months. Temperatures stay steady, with little variation from season to season.
Because of this, you should plan for warm, humid conditions all year. Packing light, breathable clothes and preparing for sudden rain will help more than trying to time your trip around big seasonal swings.
Impact of Monsoon Winds
The transition between the northwest and southeast monsoon winds also shapes Mahé’s spring weather. The northwest monsoon, which dominates from late fall through early spring, starts to weaken by March.
By May, the southeast monsoon takes over.
This change affects rainfall and wind direction. Early spring brings heavier, humid air with more showers.
Late spring gets a little drier, and the southeast trade winds pick up. These winds can make the sea choppier, especially on the southeastern coasts, while the northwestern beaches stay calmer.
Travelers might find snorkeling and swimming better in sheltered bays as spring goes on. Fishermen and sailors often adjust their routes based on these wind changes, which shape local activities just as much as the rainfall.
Temperature Trends During Spring
Spring in Mahé brings steady warmth, with only small changes month to month. You’ll get consistent daytime heat, mild nights, and sea temperatures that stay comfortable for swimming all season.
Average High and Low Temperatures
Daytime highs in Mahé during spring usually range from 86°F to 87°F (30°C–31°C). March averages about 86.3°F, April nudges up to 87.2°F, and May cools a bit to 86.4°F.
These small shifts mean you probably won’t notice much difference in daytime comfort.
Nighttime lows stay warm, averaging 83°F to 84°F (28°C–29°C). This keeps evenings mild, so you rarely need extra layers.
Temperatures don’t swing much, making it easy to plan outdoor activities, whether you’re at the beach or exploring inland.
Sea surface temperatures stay steady too, ranging from 85°F to 86°F (29°C–30°C). The warm ocean adds to the tropical vibe and means you don’t need a wetsuit for swimming or snorkeling.
Daytime and Nighttime Variations
The gap between day and night temperatures in Mahé during spring is small. Daytime highs only sit about 3–4°F above nighttime lows.
This creates a stable climate that feels warm all the time, not sharply hot in the afternoon or cool after sunset.
You can spend long hours outdoors without sudden changes in comfort. Evening walks along the coast feel almost as warm as afternoons on the beach.
Humidity and rainfall tick up a little from March to May, but temperature hardly budges. Even when it rains, the air stays warm, and showers usually pass quickly.
Comparison to Other Seasons
Compared to summer and autumn, spring in Mahé feels a bit warmer but not as humid as the wettest months. April often brings the highest sea temperatures of the year, around 86°F (30°C), so it’s a great time for water activities.
Winter months, especially July, are cooler, with highs closer to 80°F–82°F (27°C–28°C). Nights in winter dip a few degrees lower than in spring.
Spring really stands out for its balance: warmer than winter, less rainy than the peak wet season, and with sea temperatures that stay inviting. This steady climate makes it simple to plan both land and water activities without worrying about big seasonal changes.
Rainfall and Rainy Days in Spring
Spring in Mahé brings moderate rainfall compared to the wetter parts of the year. You’ll get regular showers, but they’re usually shorter and less intense than those in the peak rainy season.
Monthly Average Rainfall
Rainfall in spring shifts steadily as the islands move from the wetter start of the year to the drier middle months. In March, you’ll typically get around 186 mm of rain.
By April, rainfall drops a bit to about 175 mm, and May sees even less at around 124 mm.
This decline shows a clear seasonal trend. March can still feel pretty wet, but May often brings lighter rain, making it one of the more comfortable months for visitors.
| Month | Average Rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|
| March | ~186 mm |
| April | ~175 mm |
| May | ~124 mm |
These numbers show how spring gradually dries out, with May standing out as the least rainy month.
Frequency of Rainy Days
Rain in Mahé isn’t just about how much falls—it’s also about how often. In March, expect about 13 to 14 rainy days.
April usually has 12 to 13 days, and May averages closer to 11 days.
Even during wetter months, most showers are brief and followed by sunshine. You’ll often enjoy long stretches of dry weather in between.
It helps to know that rain tends to fall in short bursts, often in the afternoon or evening. So, mornings are usually the best bet for outdoor activities.
Seasonal Changes in Precipitation
Spring marks a shift from the heavy rains of January and February to the drier season that peaks in July and August. Rainfall totals and rainy days both decline as spring moves forward.
Changing wind patterns drive this shift. Early spring still carries moisture from the northwest monsoon, but by May, the southeast trade winds bring in drier air.
If you prefer less humidity and fewer showers, this change is good news. By late spring, the weather feels more settled, and long rainy periods become less likely.
Humidity and Sunshine Hours in Spring
Spring in Mahé means warm, humid air and steady daylight. The humidity can feel heavy, but you’ll also get several hours of sunshine each day, which balances out the dampness.
Average Relative Humidity
Relative humidity in spring usually sits high, from 74% to 79%. This much moisture in the air makes it feel warmer than the thermometer says.
You’ll notice the most humid days in April and May, when rainfall is frequent.
Humidity doesn’t really drop during this season, so you’ll almost always feel that tropical heaviness. If you’re outdoors, wearing light, breathable fabrics helps.
Even with high humidity, sea breezes along the coast often bring some relief. Evenings might feel a bit more comfortable than afternoons, especially in shaded or higher spots.
Daily Sunshine Duration
Spring gives you a good amount of daylight, with 6 to 8 hours of sunshine each day on average. April and May are among the brighter months, with May often hitting the upper end.
The mix of sunshine and passing showers means you can usually count on clear skies at some point every day. Spring is a good time for swimming, snorkeling, or hiking.
Mornings tend to be sunnier, while afternoons can bring short, heavy showers. Keeping your plans flexible lets you enjoy both the bright hours and the refreshing rainfall.
Sea Temperature and Beach Conditions
During spring in Mahé, the sea stays warm and steady, making beach visits comfortable. You’ll find great conditions for swimming and water activities, with only slight changes in temperature as the season goes on.
Average Sea Temperature in Spring
From March through May, the sea around Mahé averages between 27.8°C (82°F) and 29.3°C (84.7°F). These temperatures fit with the island’s tropical climate, where water rarely drops below the upper 70s Fahrenheit.
March usually brings sea temperatures near 28.6°C (83.5°F), just right for long swims. By April, the water peaks at about 29°C (84°F).
May continues this trend, and even with a bit more rain, the sea stays warm at about 28°C (82°F).
This narrow temperature range means you don’t have to worry about sudden drops in comfort. Even when a quick rain passes, the sea remains inviting.
Swimming and Water Activities
The warm, calm sea in spring supports lots of activities. Snorkeling and diving are favorites since the water is clear and visibility is usually good when it’s not raining hard.
Coral reefs near Beau Vallon and Sainte Anne Marine Park benefit from these stable conditions.
If you like casual swimming or floating, the sea is comfortable enough for long dips without feeling chilly. Families with kids find spring great, since the sea isn’t too cool for younger swimmers.
For kayaking, paddleboarding, or sailing, lighter winds in March and April make for easy conditions. By May, breezes might pick up a bit, but the sea is still good for most activities.
This blend of warmth and accessibility makes spring one of the more reliable times for enjoying the beach.
Travel Tips for Visiting Mahe in Spring
Spring in Mahé brings warm days, humid nights, and steady rainfall. You can still enjoy outdoor activities, but it’s smart to plan around short showers and pack with the climate in mind.
Best Activities for Spring Weather
In spring, daytime temperatures in Mahe usually hover around 86–87°F (30°C). The sea feels warm too, close to 85°F (29°C), so swimming, snorkeling, and diving all feel pretty inviting.
Coral reefs stay clear most days. Sometimes, a quick rain shower might make the water a little cloudy, but it usually passes fast.
You can check out hiking in Morne Seychellois National Park. Shaded trails definitely help with the heat.
Rain falls moderately, about 7–9 wet days per month, so some paths get muddy. I’d bring some light shoes that can handle a bit of water—nobody likes soggy socks.
People love taking boat trips to nearby islands like Praslin or La Digue. March and April often bring calm seas, while May can get a little choppy.
Fishing trips and sailing tours still feel like solid options if you want to spend time out on the water.
If you’d rather take it easy, try wandering through local markets in Victoria. Mornings stay cooler, which makes exploring stalls full of spices, tropical fruit, and handmade crafts a lot more pleasant.
Packing Recommendations
Pack light, breathable clothing like cotton shirts, shorts, or sundresses. Humidity sticks around, so quick-dry fabrics really help you stay comfortable.
You’ll want a light rain jacket or a compact umbrella. Showers pop up often, but they’re usually brief.
Grab some comfortable walking sandals or water-resistant shoes for trails or wet streets. Planning to hike? Bring sturdier shoes with good grip since those slopes can get slick after rain.
For the beach, toss in reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, and polarized sunglasses. The UV index stays strong all year in Seychelles—even when it’s cloudy.
A small dry bag keeps your electronics safe if you’re heading out on a boat or get caught in sudden rain. Insect repellent comes in handy too, especially in the evenings when mosquitoes seem to show up out of nowhere.